Acupuncture may Improve Vision in Patients with Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD): An Observational Study

Background and Aims

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a disease associated with aging that gradually destroys sharp, central vision. Treatment options for AMD are limited and often vision loss cannot be prevented. The present study was performed to evaluate the effects of acupuncture treatment on vision in AMD patients.

Methods

A total of 328 patients with a clinical diagnosis of AMD were treated over a period of 2 weeks (Monday to Friday) with acupuncture given two times per day with a minimum time of 60 minutes between treatments. Vision was evaluated at baseline, after one and after two weeks of treatment by a distant (3 m) and at near (40 cm) standard reading test.

Results

Median visual acuity improved during the first treatment week at both distances (p < 0.001). Further improvement of visual acuity was observed during the second week (p < 0.001). From baseline examination to the final examination, vision at 3 m distance improved in 145 (44.2%) patients and vision at 40 cm distance improved in 290 (88.4%) patients.

Conclusion

We conclude that acupuncture may be a useful treatment option in patients with AMD. Double-blinded, randomized sham-controlled studies will be necessary for final proof of action.